Yoko Restaurant Review

: This no-frills but relaxing Japanese oasis has been around since the mid-1990s, so obviously it's a people-pleaser. There's actually almost nothing unexpected or inventive on the menu, whether sushi or cooked dishes. The selection is pretty much what's found at any neighborhood Japanese eatery these days, including a maki list dominated by the sort of gimmicky, excessive rolls --- dripping with "volcano" (cream) and deep-fried tempura flake "ash" etc. --- that Yoko's resisted longer than most sushi bars in favor of traditional pure raw fish. That said, the deep-fried sweet potato tempura roll is simple though sinful, and not found everywhere. Also unusual is the long list of à la carte (but mostly very inexpensive) add-ons enabling diners to customize their makis to taste. (Want scallions or other vegetables on that plain salmon roll? How about some cream cheese, a quail egg or a sauce?) Prices are also slightly less expensive than at places with comparable food, and there's free parking --- a major plus in South Beach.